A Girlfriends’ Getaway Itinerary In Lodi Wine Country
There’s nothing like getting away with the girls for a few days. Leave the guys and kids behind. Let your hair down for some girl talk, great wine, delicious food, shopping, the spa and a night on the town.
For many years, Lodi’s wine reputation has been intertwined almost exclusively with robust and heady, jammy zinfandels. In recent years, however, I’ve discovered that Lodi has a few tricks up its sleeve, that it’s a far more diverse wine region than its “Zinfandel Capital” title might suggest.
Twelve of the Year’s Most Interesting Lodi Grown Wines
For this list, we're more interested in well made wines that epitomize the latest in terms of what Lodi - as a winegrowing region with its own natural attributes, unlike any other region in the world - has to offer.
Journeys of Discovery: Growing organic Zinfandel at Lodi’s Lucas Winery
Correspondent Tom Wilmer visits with David Lucas, founder of Lucas Winery in Lodi, California. Lucas started the winery with his wife Heather in 1978, when there were only three other wineries in the entire AVA. Today there are more than 90 wineries in the region, but Lucas Winery has a unique niche, as they farm the oldest head-pruned Zinfandel vines in North America.
Journeys of Discovery: Culinary star crafts farm-fresh cuisine in Lodi
Chef Bradley Ogden’s stellar career includes more than fifteen international culinary awards including 2004 Restaurant of the Year for his Bradley Ogden at Ceasars Palace in Las Vegas, and “Best California Chef” bestowed by the James Beard Foundation. Even though Ogden remains involved in the management of Marin’s Lark Creek Inn and One Market Street in San Francisco, Ogden is now based in Lodi, where he is culinary director at Wine & Roses Inn and Resort.
A VISIT TO THE BLISSFUL WINERY AT LODI RUMORED TO BE “THE NEXT NAPA” AND “THE NEXT SONOMA”!
California boasts 80% of all American wine (as of 2019). Among them, Napa and Sonoma are known as excellent production areas. California is a world-renowned area that produces a lot of rare and expensive cult wines, but with its vast and diverse climate, California has many other attractive wine regions. The focus this time is on Lodi, which is easily accessible from San Francisco and San Jose. Why is it drawing attention as "NEXT Napa, Sonoma"? Find out why.
Journeys of Discovery: Mettler Family Vineyards—from vine to wine for 100 years
Correspondent Tom Wilmer reports from Lodi, California, where he visits with Larry Mettler and his daughter Kim Mettler Ealls at Mettler Family Vineyards.
Before I moved to California to begin my job with The Chronicle, I didn’t know much about Lodi wine — and I honestly didn’t think there was much to know. My only real exposure to the region came while working at an East Coast wine shop; the Lodi wines we sold there were cheap, jammy and sickly sweet.
Oh, but how wrong I was. Discovering the wines of Lodi has truly been one of the great pleasures of my job over the last few years.
Journeys of Discovery: It’s “Freakshow” time at Lodi’s Michael David Winery
The Phillips family homesteaded in Lodi, California shortly after the conclusion of the Civil War. Fruits, vegetables and grapes were staple family crops for decades. The Phillips' roadside fresh produce stand remains a Lodi destination, but its shelves and bins are equally weighted with the family’s wines.
Enjoying a dessert wine with a dessert (or perhaps as dessert) can transform a meal into a decadent and indulgent experience. Here’s what you need to know to top off your meal with flair!
Planning a trip to a new (or familiar) place can seem daunting. However, with a little help from this guide, your next trip to #visitlodi is sure to be worry-free. Here are some of the major annual events that Lodi is well known for to help you plan your trip for 2020, broken down by month.
Top 10 Things to Do in Lodi According to TripAdvisor Users
It can be overwhelming while looking at the plentiful activities to do while planning your trip to Lodi, CA. That's why we looked at YOUR opinions on TripAdvisor to see what your fellow visitor loves about Lodi!
Football is the quintessential American sport. Zinfandel is widely regarded as America’s grape because it is the quintessential American success story.
Four Reasons Why Lodi, California Is For Wine Lovers
Lodi is a hidden gem among California’s wine regions. In the last decade or so, Lodi's reputation for premium quality grapes and wines has dramatically ascended and captured the attention of wine lovers across the United States.
Lodi Wine Country certainly is beautiful, but if you prefer not drive through the country, don’t fret! We have over a dozen tasting rooms downtown that offer a variety of wines produced by local wineries.
5 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Lodi, California
Lodi is the perfect oasis for rest, relaxation, and really good food. Whether in town for a whirlwind weekend or just whisking your honey away for the day, here are five unique ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Lodi.
A Dog-Friendly Guide to Wine Tasting in Lodi, California
“Have dog, will travel” is a motto my husband and a travel-crazy me swear by and so it is no surprise that every year we try to aim for at least three road trips with Babu, our beloved Tibetan Spaniel Mix.
Why Lodi Is the Most Exciting US Wine Region You’ve Never Heard of
Some young and approaching cult-level status with their “cool-kid” followings—have noticed the potential of the region and have bought vineyards here or are sourcing fruit for their own labels. Together, they’re producing a fascinating range of Lodi wines, with bright, aromatic character profiles that are themselves somewhat shocking, especially if your reference point is the now-dated big, ripe fruit bomb.
Michael David Winery is Our American Winery of the Year | Wine Enthusiast’s 2020 Wine Star Awards
The year 2020 has been one of milestones for Michael David Winery. The sixth-generation Lodi, California producer, led by brothers Michael and David Phillips, finished an ambitious winery expansion and visitor experience overhaul
Discovering Lodi’s Best Places To Take Your Dog With
Lodi, California is known for its wine! But don't think that’s all it's about. If you’re up for some fun with your pup, here are Lodi’s best dog-friendly spots.
As your enthusiasm for wine grows, before you realize know it, it evolves from a fun activity into a hobby. If you’ve reached that point in your journey from casual wine drinker to wine enthusiast, then it’s time to invest in wine accessories that will enhance your experiences with wine.
Learning how to enjoy wine can be a daunting experience. There is a myriad of wine jargon, grape varieties, wine regions and style of wine. It’s no wonder that some wine “myths” have become so prevalent. These misconceptions can sidetrack your wine journey. We’re here to help. Here are five popular wine myths exposed!
From the Vine: Lodi wines win big at Chronicle wine competition
Several Lodi wineries were awarded Best of the Class in the 2020 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest competition of North American wines with 6,703 entrants.
From the Vine: Pair these Lodi wines with your Super Bowl spread
“Real Simple” asked sommelier Laura Burgess to come up with the perfect wines to pair with game day. I’ve taken her list a step further, suggesting wines from Lodi to go with her food and wine recommendations.
What You Need to Know about Biodynamic, Organic and Sustainable Wines
There are many ways that wines are marketed to consumers. Sometimes it’s cute labels or noting that a wine is “Award winning”; or it may be how a wine is packaged, such as the weight of the wine bottle to convey “luxury”.
Lodi is known as the Zinfandel capitol of the world, pulling in countless visitors each year for wine-tasting. However, the city is also known for being open and inviting to families. The following list compiles the ten best family restaurants in Lodi, according to TripAdvisor users.
Here are some practical recommendations about the best ways to store and age your wine so that you enjoy them as much, or perhaps more than you did the day you bought them.
Bokisch Vineyard & Cindy Della Monica Announced as 2019 Winery and Tourism Advocates of the Year
Visit Lodi!, the official visitor’s bureau of Lodi, California, announced today that Bokisch Vineyards has been named the 2019 Winery of the Year and Cindy Della Monica of Cheese Central the 2019 Tourism Advocate of the Year and will be honored at the 13th Annual Tourism Luncheon on Tuesday, May 7, 2019.
Whether you are hoping to entertain at home or looking for a great snack on the wine trail, cheese and charcuterie are to wine what the sun, soil and water are to winegrapes! Lucky for you, Lodi has just the shop to fill your cheese needs!
Lodi Winemaker Adam Metter of Michael David Winery and Mettler Family Vineyards was announced as Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s selection as the 2018 Winemaker of the Year!
If you’re looking for a vibrant, fun and exciting nightlife scene, you’ve found your next vacation destination! There are plenty of things to do after dark and lots of options for you night owls.
Admit it. You know there is a whole wide world of wine out there, but you still cling to a handful of favorites. Right?! I know it’s comfy, but you can do better!
Before you know it America’s holiday, Thanksgiving will be upon us. Recommending wines for Thanksgiving is almost always risky business. We like to hedge our food and wine pairing bets with a few bottles of wine. That way, there’s something for everyone!
Admit it. You know there is a whole wide world of wine out there, but you still cling to a handful of favorites. Right?! It’s comfortable, but you can do better
Summer is upon us, and rosé season is in full swing. With the combination of Lodi’s classic Mediterranean climate and over 100 grape varieties, look to Lodi to slake your thirst for a crisp, refreshing glass of rosé.
True Romance: A Weekend Getaway in Lodi, California
Wine country is calling to you and your sweetheart. Step into the charm of Lodi and leave feeling the romance. Lodi, California is the perfect couple’s escape. Sip. Seek. Spark.
The new year offers an opportunity for new beginnings. With over 100 different grape varieties grown in the Lodi Wine region, what better time than the new year to try a new to you, grape variety?
Rhone varietal wines are made from 22 specific grapes varieties that thrive in the Mediterranean climate of the Rhone Valley in Southern France. The most well-known of the Rhone grape varieties include Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache Noir, Viognier, and Roussanne.
Celebrate National Zinfandel Day with Lodi Zinfandel
Lodi is the self-proclaimed Zinfandel Capital of the World for good reason. Lodi is California's largest grower of premium Zinfandel; crushing 40% of the state's crop each year. But it goes beyond that.
Expand upon your knowledge of wines from the West Coast with this convenient guide to the best places in Lodi, CA to discover your new favorite vintner!
Lodi is among the leaders in California with 18 historic vineyards listed with HVS, including seven which have been validated and registered with the HVS.
Lodi has a well-deserved reputation for producing some of the world’s best Zinfandel. But the Lodi wine-growing region offers so much more than world-class Zinfandel.
Make It a Special Occasion: Out on the Town in Lodi
Whatever the occasion, there’s always a good reason to celebrate in Lodi. From contemporary craft cocktails to Zinfandel vines that date back to the 1880s, there’s more than one way to raise a glass and salute a special occasion here.
As the days get a little cooler in California, one of the best ways to enjoy Lodi’s dramatic fall foliage and scenery is with an outdoor picnic. In Lodi, there’s no shortage of opportunities for an indulgent meal on a blanket or at a table in the crisp air and late summer light.
Whether you love shopping, dining or wine tasting, there is certainly something to do for everyone in Lodi. Featuring fun ideas on what to do and where to go this holiday season.
Visit Lodi! presents #LodiStories: Behind the Wine, a series exploring the lives of locals who help give Lodi its character and charm. Lodi, California is known for its award-winning wine, but what gives the destination its warmth and passion are the people who call this city home.
If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between sustainable winegrowing and organic wine, you’re not alone. There are all kinds of labels out there to confuse us, from the familiar green and white “USDA Organic” sticker to phrases like “contains sulfites” or “made with organic grapes.”
Lodi has a well-deserved reputation for being the “Zinfandel Capital of the World”. Many of the wines on which it has built its reputation could be described as big, bold and ripe with plenty of oak influence. It’s a style that sells well because it is popular with a majority of consumers.
Do you know that Lodi leads all California wine regions for tonnage crushed of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Verdelho; and is second for Pinot Gris?
5 Great Low-Cost or Free Activities in Lodi, California
In many ways, Lodi is dripping with culture, outdoor activities, and world-class wine and food, but that doesn’t mean you can’t tour the area on a budget.
With so many photos being taken by powerful phones and cameras alike, it's easy to be overwhelmed with the many choices that a city has to offer! Here are the 9 best places to take pictures in Lodi, according to Yelp users!
Wine Folly’s 8 Alternative Wine Trails of California
Just a few steps off the beaten wine trail you’ll find these fascinating pockets of less traveled wine country. The scene is low-key and the tastings are cheap (and sometimes free). If you’re the adventurous type, these wine trails are worth exploring.
Cranes Come Calling: 22nd Annual Sandhill Crane Festival Arrives in Lodi
Every fall, thousands of greater and lesser Sandhill cranes arrive in the California Delta, ready to spend their winters vacationing near Lodi. For 22 years, the Sandhill Crane Festival has celebrated the ancient birds’ arrival, along with the wildlife and natural beauty of the Lodi area.
Beer, like wine can be seasonal. Just as one might turn to lighter-bodied, chilled wines when the mercury peaks in August and September, there are “summertime” beers.
What’s Brewing in Downtown Lodi, California’s Local Craft Beer Scene
Lodi, California’s wine region has a well-deserved reputation for being one of the top wine regions in the United States, but Lodi also has a thriving craft beer scene.
Art is everywhere in Lodi. You can taste it in a glass of locally grown Zinfandel, smell it wafting out of specialty cheese stores on School Street, and hear it playing inside trendy restaurants serving delicious culinary expressions on a plate.
Nowadays, Lodi, California, is a hotspot for wine lovers and art connoisseurs, but there’s a lot about this Central Valley city that most people don’t know.
When traveling, it can sometimes be a challenge to find suitable vegan options that provide something other than salad. Try these top-rated vegan-friendly restaurants when you #visitlodi, according to Yelp users.
No matter the season, Lodi always has fresh, local produce just waiting to be relished. Be sure to get out and enjoy the many farm stands, farmers’ markets, olive orchards, and U-pick options available throughout the year.
What’s in Season: An Interview With Cheesemonger Cindy Della Monica
Summer’s in full swing in Lodi, just 90 miles east of the San Francisco Bay Area. And with its bustling farmers’ markets, rolling farmlands and picturesque vineyards, Lodi’s food scene blooms with fresh, local ingredients.
I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream…in Lodi! We’ve put together a list of ice cream and frozen yogurt shops in Lodi, CA that will definitely satisfy any sweet tooth.
Headwaters Kayak turns winter on the water into an event
It may be getting colder outside, but that doesn’t mean the paddling season has to end. Headwaters Kayak Shop has planned two paddle events that will allow Lodians and others from surrounding areas to enjoy the rare experience of an afternoon on the Mokelumne River during the fall and winter seasons.
Tax season may not be everyone’s favorite time of the year, but we sure know a universally loved time.
You know…the time you receive your tax return!
So with your wallet flush with cash, we thought we’d give you five ways to “treat yo’ self” with your return!
As the dog days of summer approach, what is a red wine lover to do? Popular red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Zinfandel can feel too heavy to be refreshing during the summer, but there are plenty of alternatives for red wine lovers.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventure Draw Travelers to This California Wine Region
Adventure is calling in Lodi, California, a destination that draws visitors from all over the world with not only its award-winning wine, but also its outdoor adventure.
Lodi, California, is already revered for its famous vineyards, but what some people may not know is there’s an active cycling scene here, too. After all, with so much lush landscape, it seems only natural that travelers would choose to tour Lodi by bike.
While Lodi, California’s famous wineries are a favorite tourist attraction, it's our vibrant downtown that has been earning praises lately, too. Restaurants, tasting rooms, specialty boutiques and more make up its laid-back persona. So if you’re planning a visit to Lodi Wine Country, plan to spend a day exploring the brick-lined streets of downtown. Here is a list of 10 things you cannot miss!
The vines are green, the sun is shining, and fresh farm-to-table food is everywhere to be found in beautiful Lodi, California. What better time to pack a picnic and spend the day outdoors? Here are a few tips for planning your Lodi picnic adventure.
Are you looking for a new and unique idea for date night? Lodi has so many different activities that will make your date a fun-filled time, and if this is a first date…you’ll definitely get a second one!
What Makes Lodi the Zinfandel Capital of the World?
Lodi is considered the Zinfandel capital of the world because our vineyards produce about 40 percent of the premium Zinfandel in California and because Lodi Zin has unique characteristics that appeal to aficionados and everyday wine drinkers alike. Let’s take a look at the three main reasons why Lodi has become so well known for!